As a 24-year-old mother and first-generation college student majoring in Biology, Society, and Environment at the University of Minnesota, I am deeply committed to advancing health equity, particularly in dental care. My journey from being a refugee to pursuing higher education has instilled in me a profound understanding of the disparities faced by underserved communities. Current Impact: I actively volunteer at local food banks and support immigrant families transitioning to life in the U.S. These experiences have heightened my awareness of the systemic barriers to healthcare access. Additionally, my role as a sterile processing technician has provided me with insights into the critical importance of safe medical practices, reinforcing my commitment to promoting equitable healthcare. Future Aspirations: I aspire to become a dental hygienist dedicated to serving underserved populations. My goal is to provide accessible oral healthcare, educate patients on preventive care, and advocate for policies that reduce health disparities. By focusing on communities with limited access to dental services, I aim to contribute to the broader mission of health equity. Role of the Scholarship: This scholarship will significantly alleviate the financial challenges associated with my education, allowing me to concentrate on my studies and community engagement without the burden of financial stress. It will enable me to participate in specialized training programs, attend relevant workshops, and gain practical experience essential for addressing the unique needs of marginalized populations. Planned Actions to Drive Change: Community Outreach: I plan to organize and participate in dental health education programs within underserved communities, aiming to raise awareness about the importance of oral hygiene and preventive care. Policy Advocacy: Collaborating with healthcare organizations, I intend to advocate for policy reforms that expand access to dental care, such as integrating dental services into primary healthcare and supporting legislation that addresses oral health disparities. Cultural Competency Training: I will engage in and promote training that enhances cultural sensitivity among healthcare providers, ensuring that care is respectful of and responsive to the diverse backgrounds of patients. Mentorship Programs: By mentoring students from underrepresented backgrounds, I aim to encourage and support their pursuit of careers in dental health, contributing to a more diverse and inclusive healthcare workforce. Through these initiatives, I am committed to making a meaningful impact in advancing health equity, ensuring that quality dental care is accessible to all, regardless of socioeconomic status or background.

1. Tell us about yourself. I am a 24-year-old mother and a student at the University of Minnesota, majoring in Biology, Society, and Environment. As a former refugee and first-generation college student, I have overcome significant challenges, from learning English by starting school in third grade to balancing motherhood and academics. Growing up, I witnessed the struggles of my community in accessing adequate healthcare, which fueled my passion for helping others. My experiences have inspired me to pursue a career in dental hygiene, where I hope to provide care to underserved communities, promote oral health, and advocate for better health education. 2. How will this scholarship help you? This scholarship will alleviate the financial challenges of my education, allowing me to focus on completing my degree while balancing motherhood. It will enable me to dedicate more time to my studies, pursue hands-on experiences in dental hygiene, and engage in extracurricular activities without the stress of financial constraints. Additionally, it will provide the stability needed to invest in my child’s future while I work toward achieving my academic and professional goals. 3. What are your academic and/or career goals? My goal is to graduate, enroll in a dental hygiene program, and work in underserved communities to address oral health disparities. I hope to educate patients about preventive care, provide accessible services, and advocate for equitable healthcare. Long term, I aim to become a role model for my child and others, demonstrating that hard work and determination can achieve any goal. I also aspire to mentor young individuals from similar backgrounds, encouraging them to pursue their dreams. 4. How have you contributed to your community? I have volunteered at food banks, supported immigrant families transitioning to life in the U.S., and worked as a sterile processing technician, ensuring safe medical procedures. These experiences have strengthened my commitment to serving others and addressing inequalities in healthcare access. I take pride in empowering others by sharing resources, providing guidance, and fostering a sense of community through my efforts. 5. Tell us about a time you failed and what you learned from it. I struggled with a college chemistry course, failing my first exam due to poor time management. This experience taught me to seek help, utilize resources, and adopt better study strategies. By improving my organization and persistence, I succeeded in the class, realizing that setbacks are opportunities for growth. It reminded me that failure is not a permanent condition but a stepping stone toward improvement and resilience. 6. Describe your greatest strengths. My resilience and adaptability are my greatest strengths, developed through overcoming challenges as a refugee and first-generation student. I balance the demands of motherhood and academics with a strong work ethic and determination. My empathy and ability to connect with others motivate me to make a meaningful impact in my community and future career. I am dedicated, resourceful, and driven by a deep desire to create a better future for myself, my child, and those I serve.

Sabrina Carpenter’s career has profoundly inspired me, not only as a fan of her artistry but as someone deeply motivated by her journey of resilience, self-discovery, and triumph. Her story serves as a powerful reminder that success is often the result of perseverance, patience, and unwavering belief in one’s abilities—qualities I strive to embody in my own life. What sets Sabrina apart is her authenticity and tenacity. Entering the entertainment industry at just 14, she faced immense pressures while balancing music, acting, and personal growth. Despite the challenges of navigating a decade-long contract with Disney, where her music often wasn’t fully amplified, she consistently poured her heart into her craft. This period, while demanding, shaped her into a versatile artist who values the importance of hard work and staying true to oneself. Her ability to weather setbacks, including the cancellation of her Broadway debut due to the pandemic and navigating public scrutiny during personal controversies, underscores her resilience and commitment to her passion. Sabrina’s career particularly resonates with me because of the lessons it imparts about persistence in the face of adversity. As someone who has faced significant challenges, from growing up in a refugee camp to navigating the responsibilities of being a young mother while completing my university education, her journey gives me hope. Her story demonstrates that setbacks are not the end of the road but opportunities for growth and reinvention. Watching her rise above challenges has inspired me to stay determined, even when the path ahead seems uncertain. Moreover, Sabrina’s transition from her Disney roots to creating deeply personal music like her album Emails I Can’t Send highlights the power of vulnerability. This album, rich with raw emotion and introspection, showcases her courage to share her authentic self with the world. It has taught me the value of embracing my own story, no matter how complex, and using it as a source of strength and connection. Her music often feels like a conversation, reassuring listeners that they are not alone in their struggles and that it’s okay to embrace imperfection. Beyond her artistry, Sabrina’s dedication to her craft and her ability to connect with fans on a human level is truly inspiring. Her growth as an artist reminds me that success is a journey, not a destination, and that every step—no matter how small—brings us closer to our goals. Watching her perform on the world’s largest stages, like opening for Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour, reinforces the idea that preparation and persistence can lead to extraordinary opportunities. Sabrina Carpenter’s career has impacted me by reinforcing the importance of perseverance, authenticity, and self-expression. She has shown me that challenges are not barriers but stepping stones to success and that embracing who we are can lead to powerful connections with others. Her journey motivates me to continue working toward my goals, no matter how daunting the road may seem, and to believe that with hard work and dedication, anything is possible.

One of my favorite book-to-film adaptations is Twilight by Stephenie Meyer. This story holds a special place in my heart because it beautifully transitioned from the pages of a book into a visual experience that brought the characters and world to life. Both the book and the film captured themes of love, identity, and the challenges of navigating a complex world, but the film offered a new way to connect with these ideas. When I first read Twilight, I was drawn into Bella Swan and Edward Cullen’s story. Stephenie Meyer’s writing made Forks, Washington—a small, rainy town surrounded by mysterious forests—feel so real. The novel painted vivid pictures in my mind, but seeing the movie brought that world to life in an incredible way. The moody, atmospheric cinematography and the misty landscapes perfectly matched the tone of the book. It felt as if the setting and characters I had imagined were pulled straight from the pages and put on screen. What made the adaptation truly special was how it stayed true to the book’s heart while adding a fresh perspective. In the novel, much of the story unfolds through Bella’s inner thoughts. The movie captured this with voiceovers, Kristen Stewart’s expressive acting, and the subtle way she interacted with the people around her. At the same time, the film expanded on moments that were more understated in the book, like the intense car crash scene where Edward saves Bella or the dramatic fight with James. Seeing these moments play out on screen made them more exciting and added new layers to the story. Another thing I loved about the movie was its soundtrack. Songs like “Bella’s Lullaby” and “Supermassive Black Hole” made key scenes even more powerful. The music set the mood and helped me feel the emotions of the characters in a deeper way than I had when reading. It was a perfect example of how movies can enhance a story with elements like sound and visuals. Twilight bridged the gap between reading and watching by giving me two ways to experience the same story. The book let me use my imagination to picture the characters, their emotions, and the setting. The movie gave those images a concrete form, making them feel even more real and relatable. Watching the adaptation helped me appreciate the story even more and showed me how creative storytelling can be in different formats. Overall, Twilight will always be a favorite because it brought together the best of reading and viewing. It reminded me of how stories can evolve across different mediums, offering new ways to connect with the same characters and themes. Whether on the page or the screen, Twilight captures the magic of storytelling, and that’s what makes it so special to me.

Understanding the nature of our universe is more than a scientific endeavor—it is a moral responsibility. This quest enables us to uncover the fundamental truths of existence, bridging the gap between knowledge and its applications to improve human life. For me, this pursuit is deeply personal. My journey from a refugee camp in Ethiopia to becoming a first-generation college student has given me a unique lens through which I view the importance of science, education, and the human capacity for resilience. My story is one of overcoming adversity and using the lessons from my life to contribute meaningfully to understanding and improving the world. Growing up in a refugee camp, my understanding of the universe was limited to what I could observe around me. The vastness of the sky, the consistency of the sun rising each day, and the rhythms of nature were constants in a life filled with uncertainty. At that time, my family struggled to meet even our basic needs, and education was an unattainable luxury. Yet, despite our circumstances, I was drawn to the wonder of the world around me. I often questioned how the elements of nature worked in harmony, even in the midst of human hardship. These musings planted the seeds of my curiosity, though my journey toward formal education and scientific exploration would take years to materialize. When my family immigrated to the United States, I was given a chance to pursue education for the first time. However, this opportunity came with significant challenges. Starting school in the third grade as an illiterate child with no knowledge of English was an overwhelming experience. For years, I felt like an outsider, struggling to find my place in a new world while trying to master a new language. But adversity became my greatest teacher. Through persistence and hard work, I not only learned to communicate but also developed an insatiable desire to learn about the world. As I progressed through school and eventually began my studies at the University of Minnesota, majoring in Biology, Society, and Environment, I realized the immense power of interdisciplinary knowledge in shaping our understanding of the universe. This program has allowed me to explore the intersection of science and humanity, highlighting how cultural, social, and environmental factors influence our perception and use of scientific knowledge. My coursework has reinforced my belief that understanding the universe requires not just scientific expertise but also ethical considerations and cultural awareness. At 24 years old, I am a young mother of one, and balancing motherhood with finishing my final years of university is both a joy and a challenge. My child inspires me to work harder and reminds me of the importance of resilience. There are moments when I feel the weight of responsibility and the difficulty of managing both roles. Still, I find strength in reflecting on the broader nature of our universe. One thought that often comes to me is how, while my challenges may feel overwhelming at times, others in the world are navigating even greater hardships. This realization humbles me and reminds me that everyone has their own unique route through life’s challenges. To me, this understanding is also part of the nature of our universe: the acknowledgment of shared struggles, the resilience that unites us, and the diverse ways we navigate obstacles. Being a young mother has also deepened my appreciation for the interconnectedness of life. In the quiet moments of caring for my child, I marvel at the intricate systems that sustain human life, from the biological processes within us to the environmental factors that shape our existence. This perspective fuels my curiosity and commitment to understanding the universe—not only for its scientific marvels but also for its relevance to human life and well-being. My life experiences have shaped my approach to this pursuit. Coming from a background of scarcity and resilience, I understand the importance of applying scientific knowledge to address real-world challenges, particularly those faced by underserved communities. For instance, my work as an associate sterile processing technician at Sanford Health taught me the value of precision and responsibility in healthcare. Ensuring that medical instruments were properly sterilized was more than just a job—it was a reminder of how science and technology directly impact human lives. This experience underscored my commitment to using scientific advancements to improve healthcare outcomes, especially for marginalized populations. Furthermore, my experience as an interpreter at Allina Health deepened my appreciation for cultural sensitivity in applying scientific knowledge. In this role, I helped bridge the gap between healthcare providers and patients from diverse backgrounds, ensuring that communication barriers did not hinder access to care. This work reinforced my belief that understanding the universe includes understanding the diverse ways in which people experience and interact with it. In my academic journey, I have been particularly inspired by the fields of global health and environmental sustainability. Both areas exemplify how scientific knowledge can be used to address pressing issues that affect humanity as a whole. Global health, for example, has taught me about the interconnectedness of human well-being, emphasizing that no community can truly thrive while others are left behind. Similarly, studying environmental sustainability has highlighted the delicate balance of ecosystems and the urgent need to address climate change to ensure a livable future for all. To contribute to these fields, I plan to employ an interdisciplinary approach that combines scientific inquiry with ethical leadership. For example, I am interested in exploring how advancements in medical technology can be made accessible to underserved communities, addressing the disparities in healthcare that I witnessed both in the refugee camp and in my work in the United States. Similarly, I hope to advocate for policies that promote environmental sustainability, ensuring that scientific discoveries are used responsibly to protect our planet. Through this scholarship, I hope to further my education and gain the skills and knowledge needed to contribute to the collective effort of understanding the universe. With this support, I can focus on my studies, participate in extracurricular activities, and engage in research opportunities that align with my goals. This scholarship would also alleviate the financial stress, allowing me to dedicate myself fully to my academic and professional pursuits. In conclusion, my journey from a refugee camp to becoming a first-generation college student and young mother has instilled in me a profound appreciation for the power of education and the importance of understanding the universe. My experiences have shaped my vision for a future where scientific knowledge is used to address global challenges, promote equity, and inspire others to pursue their dreams. With this scholarship, I am eager to continue my journey, contributing to the collective effort of exploring and improving our world while honoring the resilience and determination that have brought me this far.

My name is Siham Muhumed, and my story is one of resilience, determination, and a deep commitment to healthcare. I am a junior at the University of Minnesota, pursuing a degree in Biology, Society, and Environment. This interdisciplinary program has given me a strong foundation in the biological sciences and social determinants of health, shaping my understanding of the critical intersection between science and society. It is through this lens that I’ve developed a passion for dental hygiene—a field where I aspire to make a tangible and lasting impact. As a first-generation college student and immigrant, my journey has been defined by perseverance. I arrived in the United States as a child, navigating a new culture, language, and education system. Starting school in the third grade while learning English was a challenge that tested my adaptability and grit. Within a year, I became proficient in two languages, laying the groundwork for my lifelong commitment to overcoming obstacles. These early experiences instilled in me a drive to not only succeed but to thrive in the face of adversity. My dream is to build a career in dental hygiene, a field that combines my love of healthcare with my desire to serve others. Oral health is a critical yet often overlooked component of overall well-being, and I am passionate about educating patients and providing care that improves their quality of life. As someone who values community and equity, I am especially drawn to serving underrepresented populations, where the need for compassionate and culturally sensitive care is greatest. My professional experiences have further solidified my commitment to this field. As an Associate Sterile Processing Technician at Sanford Health, I gained hands-on experience ensuring the safety of medical procedures through meticulous sterilization of instruments. This role enhanced my attention to detail, organizational skills, and ability to work under pressure. Additionally, my work as an interpreter at Allina Health allowed me to connect with patients from diverse backgrounds, fostering trust and understanding in their care. These experiences have equipped me with the technical expertise and interpersonal skills needed to excel in dental hygiene. Receiving this scholarship would make a profound difference in my academic journey. As I approach my final year of university, financial challenges often add stress to my life, as balancing work and studies can be overwhelming. This scholarship would ease the burden of paying for my expenses, allowing me to focus fully on my education and professional development. With this support, I could engage in extracurricular activities, participate in research, and gain additional hands-on experiences to prepare for my intended career in dental hygiene. Thank you for considering my application. Your support would not only help me achieve my academic and career goals but also empower me to contribute meaningfully to my community and the field of oral healthcare.

Throughout my life, my experiences have profoundly shaped my pro-life position, and they have instilled in me a deep commitment to promoting the dignity and value of all human beings, especially the unborn. As a first-generation college student who grew up in a refugee camp in Ethiopia, I have witnessed firsthand the impact of adversity, loss, and the fight for survival. These experiences have shaped my belief that every life, regardless of the circumstances, holds inherent value and deserves to be protected and cherished. Coming from a background where access to basic human needs like food, shelter, and education was scarce, I saw how fragile life can be, especially for those who are most vulnerable. When my family arrived in the United States, we faced the challenge of adapting to a new culture, learning a new language, and navigating a system that was unfamiliar to us. Yet, despite the many obstacles, I witnessed the resilience of my community and the strength of individuals who were determined to make a better life for themselves. This resilience affirmed my belief that every human life, no matter how difficult the circumstances, has a unique purpose and potential. Through my journey, I have come to understand that life is not only a gift but also a responsibility to protect. This conviction has driven me to advocate for the rights of the unborn and to work towards a society that values and protects life at every stage. I believe that the value of life is not determined by a person’s socioeconomic status, race, or background, but by the inherent dignity each individual possesses simply by being human. One of the most significant actions I take to promote this belief is by engaging in volunteer work at local organizations that support women facing unplanned pregnancies. These organizations offer resources, counseling, and education to women, helping them navigate their pregnancies and make informed decisions. By offering my time and support, I am able to contribute to a network of care that empowers women to choose life for their unborn children. Additionally, I have participated in pro-life events and marches, where I have been able to join others who share my values in advocating for the protection of the unborn. As a future healthcare professional, I am committed to continuing to promote the value and dignity of all human life through my career. I plan to work towards making healthcare more accessible, especially for underserved communities, so that women and families can receive the support and care they need to choose life. My education in Biology, Society, and Environment has provided me with the knowledge to understand the complex social and medical issues surrounding life, and I am dedicated to using that knowledge to advocate for policies and practices that support life at all stages. In conclusion, my experiences have shaped my pro-life position by teaching me the importance of resilience, empathy, and the inherent worth of all human beings. I am committed to promoting the dignity of life through my actions, my career, and my advocacy, and I will continue to fight for the rights of the unborn, ensuring that their voices are heard and their lives are valued.

Adversity is a part of life, but overcoming challenges is how we grow and discover our potential. My journey has been shaped by resilience and perseverance. As a first-generation college student and immigrant, I’ve faced challenges that have tested my limits but also strengthened my purpose. I grew up in a refugee camp in Ethiopia, where education was not accessible to my family. When we moved to the United States, I started school in third grade without knowing English. The language barrier was overwhelming, and I struggled to keep up with my classmates. I knew education was the key to a better future, so I dedicated myself to learning English and adapting to my new environment. I practiced daily, sought help from teachers and peers, and slowly gained confidence in the classroom. It wasn’t easy, but with determination, I overcame these challenges and grew stronger in the process. This experience taught me that adversity is not permanent. It’s a hurdle that can be overcome with hard work and resilience. Success doesn’t come instantly but through consistent effort. That belief in myself has stayed with me throughout my life and continues to drive me toward my academic and professional goals. Now, as a junior at the University of Minnesota, I am proud of how far I’ve come. My experiences have shaped me into someone who doesn’t back down from adversity. I know that challenges are part of life, but how I respond defines me. I’m not afraid to ask for help, seek resources, or push through setbacks. Every step forward is progress. To anyone facing similar challenges, I’d say: Don’t let adversity define you. It’s just a chapter in your story, not the whole narrative. Reach out for help, keep working hard, and stay committed. Every effort brings you closer to success, and your dreams are attainable with resilience and dedication. Adversity will always be part of life, but it’s how we navigate through it that helps us grow. I’m determined to continue my education, contribute to my community, and inspire others to overcome their struggles, knowing that they too can rise above any challenge. Through all of my experiences, I have learned that the value of perseverance and hard work cannot be overstated. Not only do these qualities help overcome obstacles, but they also shape who we are and our potential to make an impact in the world. As I continue my academic journey, I am committed to being an example for others, especially young people facing adversity. I want to show them that no matter where you start, dedication and resilience can carry you further than you ever imagined.

Legacy, to me, represents the lasting impact we leave on others, whether it’s through our actions, values, or the paths we forge for future generations. It’s about creating a foundation that others can build upon, paving the way for progress and change. For me, legacy is deeply intertwined with breaking barriers, overcoming adversity, and making opportunities accessible for those who come after me. My upbringing has played a significant role in shaping my path in life. I was born and raised in a refugee camp in Ethiopia, where my family struggled with poverty. My parents couldn’t afford education for me, and as a result, I grew up illiterate. It wasn’t until I arrived in the United States and started school in third grade that I was given the opportunity to learn and pursue an education. The challenges of adapting to a new language and culture were immense, but they also taught me resilience, perseverance, and the importance of hard work. The cycle I am determined to break is one of limited access to education and opportunity. Growing up in a refugee camp, education was not a given—it was a privilege. My parents did their best with what little they had, but they were unable to provide the resources I needed to succeed academically. Now that I have the chance to pursue higher education, I am driven to ensure that my future children will have access to the opportunities I never had. I want to be an example to them that no matter the struggles or barriers, anything is possible through hard work and dedication. In breaking this cycle, I plan to create a path where education is not a privilege but a right for my children. I will encourage them to pursue their dreams and ensure they have the tools, resources, and support to do so without the financial and cultural barriers I faced. I also want to continue advocating for accessible education, especially for communities like mine, where opportunities are scarce. My journey has shown me that perseverance, coupled with the right opportunities, can lead to success. I want to instill in my future children the belief that they are capable of achieving their goals and that their dreams are worth pursuing. I hope that by breaking the cycle of limited access to education, I can inspire others to do the same and contribute to building a more equitable and accessible world for the generations to come. Someone I'm inspired by is Maya Angelou who grew up in the segregated South and faced many challenges during her early life, including being sent to live with her grandmother after her parents’ divorce. At a young age, she was sexually abused, which led to her becoming mute for several years. During this time, Angelou struggled with literacy, but she later found solace and a sense of purpose through literature and writing. She went on to become an incredibly influential figure in the arts and civil rights, using her experiences to empower others and advocate for justice. Her story exemplifies resilience and determination in the face of adversity, much like my own. Angelou’s journey to literacy and her later accomplishments as a writer and educator serve as a powerful example of how overcoming early hardships can fuel a commitment to personal growth and societal change. Her ability to break barriers and create a legacy of inspiration mirrors the cycle-breaking I aim to achieve for my future.

My name is Siham Muhumed, and my story is one of resilience, determination, and a deep commitment to healthcare. I am a junior at the University of Minnesota, pursuing a degree in Biology, Society, and Environment. This interdisciplinary program has given me a strong foundation in the biological sciences and social determinants of health, shaping my understanding of the critical intersection between science and society. It is through this lens that I’ve developed a passion for dental hygiene—a field where I aspire to make a tangible and lasting impact. As a first-generation college student and immigrant, my journey has been defined by perseverance. I arrived in the United States as a child, navigating a new culture, language, and education system. Starting school in the third grade while learning English was a challenge that tested my adaptability and grit. Within a year, I became proficient in two languages, laying the groundwork for my lifelong commitment to overcoming obstacles. These early experiences instilled in me a drive to not only succeed but to thrive in the face of adversity. My dream is to build a career in dental hygiene, a field that combines my love of healthcare with my desire to serve others. Oral health is a critical yet often overlooked component of overall well-being, and I am passionate about educating patients and providing care that improves their quality of life. As someone who values community and equity, I am especially drawn to serving underrepresented populations, where the need for compassionate and culturally sensitive care is greatest. My professional experiences have further solidified my commitment to this field. As an Associate Sterile Processing Technician at Sanford Health, I gained hands-on experience ensuring the safety of medical procedures through meticulous sterilization of instruments. This role enhanced my attention to detail, organizational skills, and ability to work under pressure. Additionally, my work as an interpreter at Allina Health allowed me to connect with patients from diverse backgrounds, fostering trust and understanding in their care. These experiences have equipped me with the technical expertise and interpersonal skills needed to excel in dental hygiene. Receiving this scholarship would make a profound difference in my academic journey. As I approach my final year of university, financial challenges often add stress to my life, as balancing work and studies can be overwhelming. This scholarship would ease the burden of paying for my expenses, allowing me to focus fully on my education and professional development. With this support, I could engage in extracurricular activities, participate in research, and gain additional hands-on experiences to prepare for my intended career in dental hygiene. Thank you for considering my application. Your support would not only help me achieve my academic and career goals but also empower me to contribute meaningfully to my community and the field of oral healthcare.

My name is Siham Muhumed, and my story is one of resilience, determination, and a deep commitment to healthcare. I am a junior at the University of Minnesota, pursuing a degree in Biology, Society, and Environment. This interdisciplinary program has given me a strong foundation in the biological sciences and social determinants of health, shaping my understanding of the critical intersection between science and society. It is through this lens that I’ve developed a passion for dental hygiene—a field where I aspire to make a tangible and lasting impact. As a first-generation college student and immigrant, my journey has been defined by perseverance. I arrived in the United States as a child, navigating a new culture, language, and education system. Starting school in the third grade while learning English was a challenge that tested my adaptability and grit. Within a year, I became proficient in two languages, laying the groundwork for my lifelong commitment to overcoming obstacles. These early experiences instilled in me a drive to not only succeed but to thrive in the face of adversity. My dream is to build a career in dental hygiene, a field that combines my love of healthcare with my desire to serve others. Oral health is a critical yet often overlooked component of overall well-being, and I am passionate about educating patients and providing care that improves their quality of life. As someone who values community and equity, I am especially drawn to serving underrepresented populations, where the need for compassionate and culturally sensitive care is greatest. My professional experiences have further solidified my commitment to this field. As an Associate Sterile Processing Technician at Sanford Health, I gained hands-on experience ensuring the safety of medical procedures through meticulous sterilization of instruments. This role enhanced my attention to detail, organizational skills, and ability to work under pressure. Additionally, my work as an interpreter at Allina Health allowed me to connect with patients from diverse backgrounds, fostering trust and understanding in their care. These experiences have equipped me with the technical expertise and interpersonal skills needed to excel in dental hygiene. Receiving this scholarship would make a profound difference in my academic journey. As I approach my final year of university, financial challenges often add stress to my life, as balancing work and studies can be overwhelming. This scholarship would ease the burden of paying for my expenses, allowing me to focus fully on my education and professional development. With this support, I could engage in extracurricular activities, participate in research, and gain additional hands-on experiences to prepare for my intended career in dental hygiene. Thank you for considering my application. Your support would not only help me achieve my academic and career goals but also empower me to contribute meaningfully to my community and the field of oral healthcare.

My name is Siham Muhumed, and my story is one of resilience, determination, and a deep commitment to healthcare. I am a junior at the University of Minnesota, pursuing a degree in Biology, Society, and Environment. This interdisciplinary program has given me a strong foundation in the biological sciences and social determinants of health, shaping my understanding of the critical intersection between science and society. It is through this lens that I’ve developed a passion for dental hygiene—a field where I aspire to make a tangible and lasting impact. As a first-generation college student and immigrant, my journey has been defined by perseverance. I arrived in the United States as a child, navigating a new culture, language, and education system. Starting school in the third grade while learning English was a challenge that tested my adaptability and grit. Within a year, I became proficient in two languages, laying the groundwork for my lifelong commitment to overcoming obstacles. These early experiences instilled in me a drive to not only succeed but to thrive in the face of adversity. My dream is to build a career in dental hygiene, a field that combines my love of healthcare with my desire to serve others. Oral health is a critical yet often overlooked component of overall well-being, and I am passionate about educating patients and providing care that improves their quality of life. As someone who values community and equity, I am especially drawn to serving underrepresented populations, where the need for compassionate and culturally sensitive care is greatest. My professional experiences have further solidified my commitment to this field. As an Associate Sterile Processing Technician at Sanford Health, I gained hands-on experience ensuring the safety of medical procedures through meticulous sterilization of instruments. This role enhanced my attention to detail, organizational skills, and ability to work under pressure. Additionally, my work as an interpreter at Allina Health allowed me to connect with patients from diverse backgrounds, fostering trust and understanding in their care. These experiences have equipped me with the technical expertise and interpersonal skills needed to excel in dental hygiene. Receiving this scholarship would make a profound difference in my academic journey. As I approach my final year of university, financial challenges often add stress to my life, as balancing work and studies can be overwhelming. This scholarship would ease the burden of paying for my expenses, allowing me to focus fully on my education and professional development. With this support, I could engage in extracurricular activities, participate in research, and gain additional hands-on experiences to prepare for my intended career in dental hygiene. Thank you for considering my application. Your support would not only help me achieve my academic and career goals but also empower me to contribute meaningfully to my community and the field of oral healthcare.